With the current lifestyle trend toward “cocooning,” fireplaces — alluring because they're a strong visual focal point — are a design feature in high demand. Makers have responded with increased variety, new features, and customization options. Trims, temperature, even flame size can be carefully selected or changed on a whim. Optional remote controls are fast becoming must-haves for homeowners who want to enjoy their investment to the fullest.

Hot DÉcor

Fiery Hues tiles come in a wide range of colors and sizes designed specifically for fireplace installations. All the company's tiles are freeze- and thaw-resistant and are suitable for use both indoors and out. A number of trim styles, including rails, caps, and crowns, are also offered. Trikeenan. 603.355.2961. www.trikeenan.com.

Watered Down, Fired Up

The Aqueon hydrogen-burning fireplace extracts and burns hydrogen fuel from water, offering an alternative energy source that burns cleanly (eliminating the need for venting or a sealed glass front) with 100% efficiency, the maker says. Aqueon boasts a sculpture-like design with stainless steel and copper elements, along with a 360-degree view of the flame. It can be installed virtually anywhere that has water and electrical access. Heat-N-Glo. 888.427.3973. www.heatnglo.com.

There are two central profit you can like if you decide to create a bonsai playgroup of your own and grow your bonsai leaves from seed. First, bonsai seeds are cheaper to secure than live bonsai foliage.